Giant Bartholin Cyst in a Sexually Active Widow: Management and Aspects of Neglected Sexuality

The Bartholin glands are paired glands that are typically non-palpable whose function is to secrete fluid onto the mucosal surface of the labia. Disorders with the Bartholin’s glands include cysts and abscesses. Bartholin’s cyst rarely grows so large as to be confused with the fetal head at crowning. What we are familiar with is either the gynaecological emergency of Bartholin’s abscess or the day case cyst of the gland which is considered a registrar's operation list, both of which are best treated by marsupialization.

We came across this unusual presentation of giant Bartholin cyst in a private specialist clinic setting. Our intention is not to create an avenue for lighter mood, but to add to numerous issues with inimical nature of diseases, poverty and ignorance (triad of health problems)peculiar to Sub-Sahara Africa.

The widow in discussion who is burdened with care of her family alone, ought to have been partnered with holistically. She had a sexual partner. The sexual partner, the nuclear family members and the society has their roles to play so that she won’t be viewed as a neglected widow. Clinicians should be aware of this entity, although it can be rare.